Creating a Recycled Based Society Through Solid Waste Transformation: A Step Towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) 1 and 11 in Sub-Saharan African

Abstract

This study examined the solid waste transformation process to promote a recycled based society. Four major waste transformation sites were identified in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. Direct physical observation and in-situ key informant discussion were adopted to elicit qualitative data. At the same time, the questionnaire was administered to 194 members of the host communities within 300 meters radius of the transformation sites. The study categorized waste transformation into four cardinal processes (Scavengers/ Resources Recovery; Cart Pushers/ Itinerant Buyer; Metals Scrapers/Recyclers and Composter) and established that the process was left in the hands of the less-educated group in the community. The study reports no statistically significant variation between distance and severity of consequences experienced. However, residents express concern about the consequences of the activities at the transformation sites, including noise pollution, rodents' invasion, scavenging birds' disturbance, and pungent odour, among others, despite having an average of 8 years of residency. The coping strategies by the residents present a firm base for the formulation and execution of environmental management system (EMS) that is acceptable by the locals to promote a recycled based society, thereby contributing to the actualization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 1 and 11, reducing poverty and making the community safe, resilient and sustainable.